Objective:
To identify and analyze strategies for promoting patient safety in the view of the nurses who are directly involved in patient care.
Methods:
A descriptive, qualitative study undertaken in a public hospital in Fortaleza, in the state of Ceará (CE). Data was collected through semi-structured interviews held with 37 nurses, analyzed using the framework of content analysis. The strategies identified for promoting patient safety were presented in three categories: 1. Identification of the main risks related to the nursing care, 2. Incorporation of safe, evidence-based practices and 3. Surveying of barriers to, and opportunities for, safe care.
Results:
The participants identified physical/chemical, clinical, assistential and institutional risks, as well as barriers and opportunities which entail the patient's safety or lack of safety. On the other hand, they mention practices based on international objectives disseminated by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Conclusion:
These professionals' inclusion and active participation in shared management is suggested, for the implantation of a culture of safety.
Nursing; Patient safety; Safety management; Quality of health care